News & Stories
Apr 8, 2025
Pickleball history was made in Vietnam as thousands of fans packed Rach Mieu Stadium to witness an unforgettable showdown between tennis legend Andre Agassi and world number one pickleball player Ben Johns. The exhibition was part of the 2025 Pickleball Legends Tour, which brought the sport’s biggest stars to Southeast Asia for the very first time.
This high-energy event not only showcased elite-level pickleball but also marked a major step forward in introducing the sport to a broader Asian audience.
Legends, Pros, and Rising Stars
The Vietnamese stop featured a dream lineup of international stars, including:
Andre Agassi
Ben Johns
Ana Bright
Tyson McGuffin
Collin Johns
Brooke Buckner
Chao Yi (Zoey) Wang
Athletes were split into two teams, led by captains Agassi and Johns. The matches thrilled fans with fast-paced rallies, jaw-dropping net play, and the kind of professional skill that showcased why pickleball is one of the world’s fastest-growing sports.
(Photo Source: https://dantri.com.vn/the-thao/huyen-thoai-quan-vot-agassi-doi-dau-so-mot-the-gioi-trong-mon-pickleball-20250326194354156.htm)
Vietnam Welcomes Pickleball with Open Arms
The energy inside Rach Mieu Stadium was electric from start to finish. For many attendees, it was their first time watching live pickleball—and the reaction was overwhelming.
Organizers reflected on the success of the event:
“The matches between these two teams left fans completely overwhelmed and excited by the top-notch skills of the players,” they said. “It is truly rare for Vietnamese fans to watch such top-notch [pickleball].”
The response from fans confirmed that Vietnam is more than ready to embrace this dynamic and inclusive sport.
Agassi Shares a Heartfelt Moment
During the event, Agassi took a moment to connect with the crowd and share his thoughts:
“I regret not being able to come to Vietnam sooner,” he said. “The Vietnamese people's love for sports is very great.”
His presence added a powerful layer of inspiration and nostalgia, bridging the worlds of tennis and pickleball on a single court.
(Photo Source: https://dantri.com.vn/the-thao/huyen-thoai-quan-vot-agassi-doi-dau-so-mot-the-gioi-trong-mon-pickleball-20250326194354156.htm)
A Landmark Moment for Pickleball in Asia
With the conclusion of the Ho Chi Minh City stop, pickleball’s future in Vietnam looks brighter than ever. The event brought together global stars, local fans, and a shared love of sport, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.
As the sport continues to expand across continents, Vietnam’s enthusiastic response proves that pickleball has a home in Asia—and a vibrant community ready to grow with it.
The 2025 Pickleball Legends Tour has left its mark on Ho Chi Minh City, and the ripple effect is only just beginning. Whether you're a seasoned player or a curious newcomer, now is the time to discover the joy of pickleball.
